Give to Get

“Love is the process of conquering and getting conquered” – Radhanath Swami.

Relationships can sometimes become dry. Very often the reason is simple: the watering of the relationship has stopped. For relationships to grow, they need to be watered by care, affection, and time. For some reason or the other, e.g. busy work schedules, if the husband and wife are not able to get enough time to reciprocate with each other, the relationship begins to dry up. The partners, even if living under the same roof, start feeling lonely, unloved.

If we do not feel loved, it’s probably because we are not showing love enough. If we do not feel respected, it is probably because we are not showing respect enough. Human nature is to reciprocate. If we are impersonal, mechanical and shallow in our dealings with our spouse, then he or she will just reflect back the same sentiments. If we do not show care and affection, he or she will be indifferent too. This is human nature. Our behavior towards others withdraws certain qualities. If we insult others, we draw out their anger. If we praise others, we might draw out their pride. But if we are affectionate to others, we can draw out affection. The fix is to proactively be the person we want the other to be.

“I have not found anyone who is caring, loving, and affectionate, but who has still not received love in return. In giving, we receive.” — Radhanath Swami.